I came in for a boot and boot fitting as my old boots were completely worn out (prior to the '24/'25 season). I've gotten accustomed to skiing in pain over my 40+ years of skiing, and previous boot fittings never quite yielded the results i wanted. I have odd shaped feet - like a cartoon duck. narrow in the back and wide and square at the toes. high volume boots never quite fit right as they would still be narrow at the toes, but then way too loose in the back with a lot of heel lift. thermal liners never seemed to solve any of my problems. punches seemed to help, but never remove the problem. enter Paul. this man is a gift sent from the goddess Skadi. He assured me my feet weren't that far out of band, and proceeded to tweak the best fitting boot i've ever used. I can go a full day charging with minimal discomfort. i dont have to undo the buckles every lift ride up. i wanted to wait out the season before i gave a review as I wanted to see how well the results held up over several days, but the 5 stars is well warranted. i've decided to try learning telemark this season, and finding any boot has been extremely difficult. there are not many models, and even fewer stock of said models, whether used or new. but once i find a boot, you can be sure i'll be bringing it to Paul (who claims to have never fitted a telemark boot, but i'm going to convince him to give it a go). read more

I'm shocked this company is top rated and people recommend it. I came for their expertise to choose the best boots for my feet. During the painful thermo fitting procedure I told many times it feels wrong and too narrow. They told me "hang on, I know what I'm doing, you have super narrow feet and we have only one boot model that will fit you right". I had no choice but to trust and paid more than $1000. Every time I wear these boots, I tell myself I'm switching back to a snowboard. My feet get numb as soon as I put the boots on even without buckling up. After a dozen of painful rides I returned and they did another fitting of the same boots. It didn't help. Now I'm sitting in a ski rental with amazing comfortable boots on my feet and think how much I hate California Ski Company for ripping me off and creating so many problems and waste of time. read more

California Ski Company - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Berkeley, California

This shop is fantastic. I moved further away but drive over an hour for this place. Purchased two pairs of boots at the shop over 15 years and each time it's a positive experience for a boot fitting (which takes a few hour). Bob was awesome and was really into his craft. The owner Greg swung by and found the pair I ended up going with. Love the appointment system versus first come first serve so they can spend enough dedicated time with you. Highly recommend! read more

We just came in for some accessories for a sledding trip but the service was really warm, friendly and great. I'm not a skier but the place was fairly packed with people who were. I guarantee we spent the fewest dollars of anyone in the place but she answered all our dumb questions like we were the most important people looking to slide down a cold hill she'd talk to all day. read more

I'm not one to spend time writing negative reviews, I've got two young kids, a job and better ways to spend my time etc, but I was treated so poorly today at Cal Ski Co that I'm sitting down to write a review. Today I went in to pick up my custom boots that I had fitted a few weeks ago and two pairs of skis I had tuned/new bindings. They are a busy shop with appointments for custom boots and I was fine waiting around until someone could check in with me and get my boots/skis. They put the boots on a bench for me to try on, which I did. For the next 15-20 min I sat there without any of the 3 employees working the store acknowledging I was there and finally I excused myself and checked in with the employee who fit my boots about what I should do about a small issue with the fit. Everyone was a bit agast I needed something. Then the employee next to me asked if I had an appointment. I said no, I talked to someone about picking up the boots today and they didn't say I needed an appt- and figured since I spent over $2K on them and that I'm using them next week that I should try them on. He said they were all busy with appointments so I shouldn't expect service. I said no one told me I needed an appointment and was confused what the expectation was for picking up custom boots - I shouldn't try them on? I have to drive an hour to get to the shop and I'm headed skiing next week. Things devolved from there. I said I was fine waiting but no one explained that I needed an appointment (Paul my original boot fitter confirmed later that I didn't need an appt and I should try them on when picking them up). The rude employee again said I shouldn't expect to have someone work on my boots if I didn't make an appt, couldn't I see they were all busy?  I've worked backcountry rescue, I'm a 45 year old female attorney and can roll with the bros and am not offended easily. It shouldn't matter that I just dropped $2,500 at their shop but I did expect to be treated with a modicum of respect or hey, we'd love to make sure these boots fit, can we get to you in a minute? But instead they seemed to be annoyed by my mere presence and my desire to try on my $2K custom boots before taking them skiing. Will I drive to Marin or elsewhere to avoid spending another cent at this store? Sure will and you should too if you want to be treated with respect. read more

These people are masters of their craft. Everyone I've interacted with at California Ski Company has skied everything and were super helpful as I was getting kitted out with skis, boots, bindings, etc. Benilia helped us out and spent a lot of time with us talking through the different skis on sale. She loves skiing and spent a ton of time with us understanding how we ski and what we like to ski to help recommend the right skis for us; she didn't rush us, and she definitely didn't upsell you. I got custom-molded boots and even got down-sold into a lower-priced pair of ski boots that Haig thought would fit me better. The boot-fitting takes a long time (be prepared to be there for two hours), but it's definitely worth it considering how important it is for boots to fit properly. The folks who are fitting you for boots are craftsmen and craftswomen, and you get a year of free fittings. The prices are pretty comparable to what you'd get at a large sports shop, but the advice you'll get from California Ski Company is unmatched. It can be a little chaotic, given that everybody generally wants skis at the same time (end of season sale) or need to get outfitted (beginning of the ski season). read more

Had my first proper boot fitting today - my boy Bob was the man! So helpful, he explained everything to me as we went through the process it's astounding what a huge change even the slightest adjustments made -- I'm so appreciative of his attention to detail. Looking forward to skiing all day in comfort now. I'll be recommending all my friends come see Bob this was worth every penny. Go Blue! read more

I spent $1000 on ski boots here -- and was treated like a nuisance the moment I needed help. The next day, one boot didn't fit properly. I went back expecting a quick adjustment, but was told by the front desk that I needed an appointment... two weeks out. No one mentioned anything about needing an appointment when they were taking my money the day before. I asked to speak to the boot fitter who had helped me -- his name is Bob. The man at the counter (white beard, silver-white glasses) went upstairs to get him. I don't know what was said, but Bob came down already dismissive. He didn't ask what was wrong -- just told me he was busy and that he could maybe help, but if his 1pm appointment showed up, he'd drop me immediately. That's how this place handles post-sale service. Cold. Rude. Unapologetic. I'd just spent a thousand dollars there -- and I was made to feel like I was interrupting their day. To his credit, Bob did fix the boot, and the fit is better now. But the way I was treated -- both by him and the man at the front desk -- was unacceptable. Zero customer care, zero accountability. I was planning on here to bring my kid but instead took him to the shop in Tahoe Palisades and wow what a godly service. If you're considering this shop, ask yourself what kind of support you'll get once your card is swiped. In my case, the answer was: none. read more

Paul and Craig. - Professional and knowledgeable with their expertise. Boot fitting = Excellent with the foot challenges I have. Highly recommend if you are in need and in the Bay Area. read more

Super friendly and chill place to buy or rent skis. Rented two sets for my kids and was out of there within 20 minutes. Smooth seasonal rental. read more

Great and prompt service! I'll go back to get my skis tuned there even though it's a little out of the way

John is an amazing bootfitter. In fact he is a toe-whisperer. I never imagined I could wear ski boots for 8+ hours comfortably. Plus he has some great stories. Thank you very much John. read more

If you want to buy from a good shop, from good people, that only offers the best quality service and products than the California Ski Company is where you want to go in the Bay Area. Hard Stop. I have had nothing but amazing experiences with the California Ski Company. The entire staff is knowledgeable, kind and patient. The Ski manager Winks is the best. Greg the owner is also spectacular. When you buy there, they're never pushy--they only want you to get gear you'll be comfortable in on the mountain and love for YEARS. Their service techs are also top notch. The way your skis look verses taking them to like an REI is very noticeable. Support Local--Support awesome ski shops--Support the California Ski Company! read more

The best customer service anywhere around! Their fitters are patient and knowledgeable, and I've never felt rushed. I've used them multiple times, and each fitter took the time needed to fit the boots to my feet. I'll never buy ski equipment anywhere else! To the reviews upset about the process: adjusting boots is not a one-and-done process, and you need to be willing to go through a couple of rounds to get it right. I grew up skiing, then a few years ago developed a morton's neuroma in my foot. It made ski boots so uncomfortable that I thought I'd have to give up skiing altogether. Initially, I went to REI to get a new pair of boots fitted. They sold me a pair of boots but didn't understand how to adjust them for my neuroma. After several experiences like this, I went to California Ski Company. My fitter was very experienced with neuromas. Not only did he adjust my boot, but he also explained every part of the process and things I could do to improve my experience. He probably spent about 3 or 4 hours working on it with me. These are true ski nerds. No store is perfect, and some reviews have mentioned some less-than-ideal salespeople. One trip in, the fitter was considerably less experienced and a little cocky (in hindsight, I should have just asked for another fitter up front), and the fit was not good. After a disappointing trip to the slopes, I reached back out to California Ski Company, and they went way out of their way to make everything right. I left the store very happy, felt taken care of, and eager to hit the slopes again. read more

After 19K earned vertical on Friday using my old Tecninica TNT's I knew it was time to update. Found the Ca Ski Co in Berkeley online with custom boot fitting reservations out in to March. I thought I'd take a chance go down and meet the staff and see what they were all about. Had no expectations of walking out with Custom fit boots today, but there was a cancellation and I lucked out! John really seemed to know his stuff and his experience mixed with questions he asked me about the type of skiing I like and such and narrowed in on the Dalbello 130 Panterra... Learned a lot about custom fitting the footbed, shell and liner...and had a great conversation throughout the fitting! At the end, found myself standing in the most comfortable boot I've ever been in. I am anxious to get out on the hill and test them out...if adjustments are needed, just need to call to coordinate and can make tweaks over the next year. If you are interested in a custom fitted boots in the Bay Area, I would recommend visiting California Ski Company! read more

California Ski Company - Custom fit Dalbello Panterra 130 - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Berkeley, California

Kimberly made my day. As a total novice, I found renting skis very intimating. Entering the store I was quite nervous, but I left with my fears quashed. Kimberly in the rental department was more helpful than I could have asked for. She had all the answers to my questions and really helped me understand the whats and whys. I couldn't recommend this store more. read more

Went here on a friend's recommendation, and: WOW! Peter got me fitted for custom-molded insoles, and then then padded my feet to help custom-mold my boots' padding/insulation layer. I was a bit skeptical of the process, at first, but Peter was super tuned-in, explaining the anatomy and fitment reasons for everything he was doing. At the end, I stood up in the boots, and felt more comfortable than I ever have in ski boots. It was MAGICAL. Can't say enough good things about Peter (super nice guy) and the whole Cal Ski staff! There was a great vibe in the shop, and it was clear that these folks make a point of being expert at their jobs. I'll probably be back for a pair or two of skis, once I let the credit card cool down a bit. read more

TLDR. pretty bad service. Associate is BEZ I am new to ski and never do boot fit before. I selected this one because of the review. However, that's the worst service I got in recent years 1. Late. I arrived on time (3:30pm), but need to sit there and wait for the boot fitter for more than 20 mins 2. Very impatient. the boot fitter just wanna back home or sth. I said the left boot is not very comfortable like the right one. that guy just told me to ski with it multiple times. it will be better. then what's the purpose to do boot fit? 3. Forced business. Be careful! the boot fit service fee is $200. but if u try their boots which are required during boot fit. u need to buy it. And their price is much higher than other stores. they don't provide any discount. Be sure to ask the price before u try the boots they provide. I was given 2 pairs of boots to try in the beginning. the guy didn't tell me the price. I thought it is just a demo boot. I can choose one I like in the end. However, in the end, the guy told me u need to take this one because we already customized it for u. the price is xxx. just W. T. F. what should I do if I just have $200 cash with me? 100% forced business ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- don't know how to reply to comments on yelp. so edit my review here 1. You said that you understood and were happy with the fit: The first boot fitter talked with another boot fitter after I refuse to buy the boot I don't like and felt uncomfortable. the second boot fitter is more patient and friendly. He did an insole molding for my left foot again. Better after that. That's why I finally decide to pick up the boots. For my review, I just wanna tell the experience I had with the boot fitter I scheduled. None of these problems I listed here are fake 2. In the end we tried to be very clear that you did not have to buy the boots nor pay the labor fee unless you wanted the boots. I don't think so. u guys just mentioned u don't need to buy the boots. pretty sure no one mentioned the labor fee. which means 3 hours + $200 got nothing read more

I know everyone else seems to love this place, but the jerk I had to fit my boots seemed only interested in selling me boots that they couldn't sell. As a result, I still have uncomfortable boots; my husband says that his boots are comfortable. On top of that the jerk told my husband, not me, that I'm hard to fit because of my 'fat shins'. I'm standing right there. I don't know if he didn't think I understood English (grew up in TN despite my name). I went in later to try to get someone to help adjust them, but to no prevail. I even got their the 'custom-fit' soles. I'm only bringing this up years later (got them before the pandemic) because I got new rain boots. Thinking that I have 'fat shins' I got a pair that adjusts in the shin only to adjust them to their 'normal' setting, not wider at all. I'm still bitter whenever the ski season comes around because I know my boots will be uncomfortable. Perhaps they only like customers who 'look' like they would be good skiers. read more

The grey hair guy that's usually there is absurdly rude and misogynous. For instance, I asked the colors of gloves and poles they had there, and this grey hair guy started laughing and said that skiers shouldn't worry about "cute" colors for their equipment. He started making fun of my question and shared it with the other staff members, clearly disrespecting me. However, since I've heard that this was the best place to shop ski equipment nearby, I stayed there, and decided to buy ski boots with them anyway. Even with the rude staff, I though it would be worth it. Well... it wasn't. They sold me ski boots that only advanced skiers buy, and I specifically asked for "beginners going to intermediate" kind of boots. I wasn't able to ski at all with those boots, but at first I didn't understand what was wrong with them. One day, I went to another shop, one that was closer to the ski resort, to rent skis for that weekend. The staff in this other store mentioned how an amazing skier I must be, because of the boots I had with me. I then told them they were new and I wasn't being able to ski with them, but I didn't know why... they told me those boots are usually bought by advanced skiers because of the stiffness and, apparently, this store staff tried to take advantage of me because they are too expensive and didn't make sense for me to buy it. You shouldn't buy those type of boots unless you are basically a pro. I went back to California Ski Company to complain about these boots, and the misogynous guy was there again. He laughed on my face saying there's no such thing as "boots for advanced skiers", he then ignored me and started dealing with my husband only. Asking things he should be asking me to my husband instead, then asking to my husband if I knew what I was talking about.. it was an absurd! They didn't want to accept the boots back and this guy said to my husband (not to me) that my husband should tell me to try them for another season. I was right next to the guy. I'm shy so I ended up accepting being treated that way, smh. I decided never to go back there again and deal with this guy. He's always there (btw I found out later he's not the owner, and according to my husband who went there again trying to return my boots, the owner is actually nice! But he's never there, so.. people have to keep dealing with the rude guy. Yep... I refused to go back with my husband and deal with all the absurd misogyny again). I since then started going to another store where I'm treated wayyyy better, with respect! Is this too much to ask? TLDR: Don't go there, the staff is too rude, and won't listen to your requests. They might try to sell you expensive equipment regardless if it's the best for you or not. read more

Bob provided excellent customer service for my boot purchase and fitting with custom foot beds. Thanks Bob!

Got new ski boots here. The custom fitting process is fantastic and I love my boots. They fit perfectly. No hot spots, no pain points while my heel stays locked in place read more

I only rented here one time for a weekend and for only one pair of skis and poles. But I can 100% say the staff was on point. They were beyond friendly and helpful and really tried to xater to my skiing needs for that weekend. I was even able to get an extension and not get late charges because I was having trouble getting back by the time requested. They went through multiple sizes and styles to make sure I felt comfortable and safe for my trip Most people say that this is an implied tjing for staff to do and I can say that it is not. You may get varying degrees of helpfulness, and California Ski Company really helped me out. Thanks all! read more

Just went in for a boot fitting on Sunday morning and had the great pleasure of working with Bob and his daughter, Sam, who was shadowing him during the appointment. I was absolutely blown away by Bob's level of knowledge and professionalism. My partner, who had already been through a boot fitting many years ago and had been planning to spend the morning running errands, ended up lurking during my appointment to eavesdrop on all the things Bob ended up explaining to me (and Sam) about the specific things he was looking for and why. It included: the shape of my feet and my legs, whether I had any previous injuries, my stance, my gait, my budget, what my preferences/expertise were as a skier (I'm a leisurely beginner/intermediate). Bob patiently answered all my questions, all of Sam's questions, and all of my partner's questions, and I did not feel rushed at all to make any decisions or pressured to pick the more expensive boot. We're the type of couple that stands at the front of a tour group so we can ask the guide a lot of questions if that gives you a clue about how many questions we asked Bob. It was one of those rare moments in my life as a consumer when I actually did really feel informed at the end of the day. I also gained a ton of knowledge about my feet and how they work?? I'll also say that as a woman, you often go into environments where you know someone is going to be commenting on your body (even if it's just your feet and ankles) and all you feel is dread. My legs fall outside of the middle of a bell curve in terms of range of normal so I've always felt really uncomfortable/painful in rental boots and during the boot rental process. But Bob was so professional throughout the whole experience that I completely forgot to be self-conscious. 12/10 would recommend California Ski Co. to any skier at any level. read more

I purchase all of my ski equipment through these guys now. I had an issue with a Leki Trecking pole and the owner was able to take a few minutes to look at it and fix it. You just don't have many companies and people like this in the Bay area that are willing to take a few extra minutes to help a customer. Thanks for all of your great work and service over the last three years. This is very much appreciated! read more

I had a great experience with my boot fitting with Bob. Really patient when I had questions about different issues I was having with my former boots. Definitely get an appointment before going, otherwise it might be a few trips over. read more

Great place to shop when you need expertise. And even if you think you don't need expertise, you might learn something here. Good folks, and great vibe. read more

I had a great experience getting fitted for my first pair of boots with Paul - looking forward to this ski season!

My feet have never had so much attention before. John Oshima is the Yoda of boot-fitting, and he was a pleasure to work with. I'm a long-time skier, but this was a first-time boot-fitting for me. The process was not short, but it was worth it when I felt the final product around my feet. I wanted to go skiing right then and there. John is also a really cool guy who has amazing stories. I drove a long way to get the perfect boot fitting, and it was worth every minute. read more

California Ski Company - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Berkeley, California

Absolutely amazing customer service and quality products. Went to rent boots and ended up doing a custom boot fitting. Was the right move. I am so happy with my boots! Worth every penny. No more skiing in pain. Greg was not willing to compromise with anything less than perfect before I left the store. He consulted with other technicians during my fitting to make sure it was done right. I was impressed with how scientific and detailed the whole process was from the evaluation of my ankles/feet to the custom insoles, to the custom boot liners. The entire staff was so friendly and warm, they honestly felt like family after the multiple-hour-long fitting. If you're on the fence about going custom, JUST DO IT. You won't regret it. read more

California Ski Company - Be prepared to learn all about your feet. - Outdoor Gear Near Me - Berkeley, California

If you love pretentious and unwelcoming stores, this is the place for you! If you want to give your money with a business that actually wants your business, look elsewhere. I've never been so shocked at the horrible service I received from California Ski Company. When I arrived and told them what I wanted to do, the salesperson told me I would be better off shopping at REI before I could even look at a single pair of skis. So, I left and I brought my business (and my $2k budget for a nice beginner setup) to a ski shop in Tahoe. They were super nice and appreciative of my business. Honestly, most of the people working there also seemed pretty disgruntled to be there... including the manager. But if you insist on giving these guys your business, and encouraging their horrible service, at least talk to Matt. He was the only guy in the store that had his act together. read more

TLDR: The boot fitters are great (I had John) and they stand behind the products that they sell. I purchased boots here last season and could never get them to work for me. The fitting was great, but the boot (Dalbello 130 flex) felt too soft. I tried them for a season but they were just not the right boot for me. I went in this season with a new pair of boots that I purchased online (Lange RX130) and had them do the fitting. They did a great job fitting the new boot and (unexpectedly) refunded me the cost of the Dalbello's. They also didn't charge me for fitting the Langes. I'm really happy with the way they stand behind what they sell. And the boot fitting was great - way better than most of the places up in Tahoe (Cosmo's excepted, but he retired). read more

Came here to get some bindings and skis for the weekend before the ski season wraps up in Tahoe. The interior of the store is very cool, and also very clean. The staff made me feel welcome and immediately asked me what I needed. They were highly knowledgeable about sizing and materials, and kept it professional throughout our conversation, being honest about prices and the best options for my skill level. Unfortunately, I was not able to get my boots custom fitted when I came as they are one of the best and only shops in the area (and even in Tahoe) that are experts in comfortable, quality boot fittings. The next available appointment slot was in two months. Even though there were lots of customers, I was in and out fairly quickly. Highly recommend this shop to skiers and snowboarders of all ages and experiences, definitely left a positive impression. (p.s. bonus points for the dog at the front!) read more

This place is amazing. I bought some boots online and scheduled a boot fitting with Bob. Bob was fantastic. After 30 minutes he told me my new boots didn't need any adjustments and that I should ski in them a few times and come back later if I needed to. He insisted on not charging me for any part of the one hour appointment. It turned out they were having their annual ski sale that day and I decided to check out some skis. The guy I talked to, Chris I think, along with most of the other staff are incredibly knowledgeable and are all expert skiers. They also personally test all the skis they rep. I ended up scoring an amazing deal on some consignment skis and what was also amazing is that they took just as much time educating me on the consignment skis as the new skiis. I've for skied over 50 years and I've never come across a shop this great. read more

I purchased my ski boots a few months back, skied them for a few days and came in for an adjustment today. 1. Professionalism is second to none 2. the fit check fantastic. Very happy with the results read more

Booked an appointment here for a boot fitting and had to cancel. Called in to cancel my appointment and was left with a reallly rude associate who was basically pushing for a reschedule. Per their store policy cancellations are subject to refunds if they are not within 24hrs of the appointment, but I had to phone in and request this and again they were extremely rude and bounced me between a couple associates and wasnt able to find my transaction until I threatened to file a merchant dispute with my credit card. From the two rude phone interactions I've had wid them I am extremely glad I avoided this shop. read more

We've been doing the kids seasonal ski deals with Kim for probably 10 years now and she's always been AMAZING to work with. This past year was the one year she wasn't there, and it was surprisingly disorganized, but thankfully she's back now. Don't miss the amazing summer sale deals and fall deals on ski tunes -- a wonderful local business to support! Oh, and they are THE BEST boot fitters around! read more

I should have written this review a couple months ago, but here goes. I live about 2 hours away from their store in Berkeley (in the Santa Cruz Mtns), and the drive to their shop is definitely worth it! I bought a new pair ski boots from CA Ski Company, had them custom fitted, and they also installed bindings on new skies I had purchased elsewhere. On my way to Tahoe, I stopped at their store assuming they would be open on a Sunday (when they're usually scheduled to be open), but dammit, they're closed (Easter). I don't celebrate Easter - bummer. Sent an email to the store, and the owner replied shortly thereafter and said he would be at the store in 45 minutes so that I could pick up my boots/skis, which he did - saved my ski trip. After skiing a couple days, boots were a bit tight in a couple spots, and they quickly modified the fitting at no extra charge (per their policy). Great store, great service. My gf then bought a new pair of skis and bindings from them. They have a very good selection of quality skies and boots.... Bottom line - highly recommended! read more

I've been coming here for a decade and trust the staff for boot fitting and ski repair, but after my experience with the owner, I'll never be back. The short version: A boot fitting experience filled with multiple weeks of delays and poor advice (and $100 spent) ended with seriously painful boots due to a careless mistake by the fitter (make sure the left liner is in the left boot and likewise with the right liner/boot!). Instead of apologizing and offering a refund, the owner sat and argued with me and told me that his staff didn't follow store policies (sounds like you're not training your staff well, bub). All I asked for was a refund of the $100, not any compensation for leaving me limping for a few hours after my ski day. He gave me $30 and a weak apology. There are a couple other good boot fitters in the bay, so you don't have to go here! read more

Went here on a recommendation from a friend and admittedly was a complete noob to this process. My fitter was late but apologetic as soon as he arrived. Found two boots to choose from and then we worked on the molding and insole customization. Because of the unique anatomy of my feet they had to make a few punches in the front of the boot to make room. This is the reason why I'm a convert. I was originally charged for several punches which turned out to cost more than the actual fitting itself. The charges and overall cost felt off but I paid and went home. I called the next day after doing some research and was connected to Greg. Greg acknowledged that I was overcharged and refunded me the entire cost of the punches. I appreciated the acknowledgment of the mistake and customer service. Thank you again and I can't wait to try them out on the slopes. read more